Benguet State University president Ben Ladilad said he is for the benefit of the university, which at present is financially hard-up following the national government’s cut in the budget of all state universities. He said the mall construction is not a done deal, adding owners of Robinson’s has met with the university officials during the incumbency of former president Rogelio Colting and the board of trustees, where a memorandum of agreement was signed.

The mall will use stand on a 9,000 square meter area presently used by BSU’s elementary department.

The elementary department will be transferred to a new site where a new building will be constructed.

He admitted however some parties are now opposing the plan, as the area is supposed to be for educational purposes.

Ladilad said BSU officials are thinking of options on how to financially sustain operation, considering the decreasing funds provided to state schools.

Asked if he favors the construction of a mall inside the BSU compound, Ladilad said, “I am for what will benefit the school.”

Earlier, former president Colting has referred to the new venture as the “edutainment mall” where various educational activities will also be done.

BSU is also coming up with a land use plan to determine how to maximize use of its properties. It was recently found, most of the vacant spaces could not be used due to the steepness of the land.

To raise income, the BSU leases portions of its property to business enterprises such as where a fast food chain stands.